SKODA isn’t the nameplate associated with polished chauffeur cars beneath a shiny hotel portico. Yet. But with dwindling competition and an upmarket move by limousine services and app-driven share-ride companies, it could soon be.

It’s one of the markets being eyed by the Czech car-maker more known for its affordable small cars than stretched saloons driven by black-suited chauffeurs.

The outgoing Superb was the sole diesel-engined saloon priced under $60,000 that suited the personal drive market. Yet it was equally as attractive as a car for large families and, in its wagon version, was a Tardis rivaled only by people-movers.

Now it returns but the accent has shifted from pragmatic cabin accommodation to contemporary styling, comprehensive safety and customer-focused equipment.

It looks sharp, drives with confidence and even has attractive pricing. Seems the Czech is about to be cashed.

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